T helper 17 (Th17) cells have been identified as a distinct T helper lineage that mediates tissue inflammation. Retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor (ROR) γt has been identified as the master transcription factor (TF) required for Th17 cell lineage commitment. There is an established consensus that TFs never function alone. Thus, RORγt is considered to form protein complexes that mediate Th17 cell differentiation. Given the importance of RORγt complexes in Th17 cell development and function, here, we summarize recent progress in research investigating the interaction of RORγt with potential partners, highlighting detailed mechanisms that direct Th17 cell differentiation and potential therapeutic targets in inflammatory diseases.
Keywords: Protein–protein interaction; RORγt; Th17 cells; transcription factor.